Nationals 3 Orioles 1

March 25, 2009|By JEFF ZREBIEC

SHUT DOWN

The Orioles managed just three hits and five base runners in six scoreless innings Tuesday against Washington Nationals starter Shairon Martis. The right-hander, who pitched a no-hitter for the Netherlands in the 2006 World Baseball Classic, allowed two opposite-field singles to Nick Markakis and an infield single to Adam Jones. He also walked Ty Wigginton and hit Ryan Freel. Martis loaded the bases with one out in the fourth but got Orioles designated hitter Matt Wieters to fly out.

RAY SHARP AGAIN

Reliever Chris Ray continued his strong spring training, pitching a scoreless ninth. He allowed one hit and struck out one and hasn't given up an earned run in eight Grapefruit League outings. In 9 1/3 innings this spring, Ray has surrendered just six hits and walked one while striking out eight. He will start the season as a setup man to George Sherrill.

ON DECK

With the Orioles getting a day off from the Grapefruit League schedule Wednesday, the team will play an eight-inning intrasquad game to give pitchers a chance to get some work in. Sherrill, Brian Bass, David Pauley, Radhames Liz, Rich Hill, Jamie Walker, Chris Waters, Bob McCrory and Kam Mickolio are scheduled to pitch. The Orioles will resume Grapefruit League play Thursday against the Florida Marlins at Fort Lauderdale Stadium. Danys Baez will start for the home team.